Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is J.D. and I’ve written many books but only published one. The reason my other “books” aren’t published is because they’re rife with plot holes and terrible characters. They’re long enough to be novels, but the characters are weak and the manuscripts were written by an 11 year old.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Candied Acridity was inspired by the roleplaying I used to do with my friends. My first draft was almost two hundred thousand words and it tried to fit all the characters. It was awful. For some reason I tried to salvage it and I ended up with a nice character study relating to grief and the search for sanctuary.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Most of my writing happens in the middle of the night. I listen to my music and forget everything else that’s happening in the world. It’s almost like a trancelike state.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I listen to the NoSleep podcast at my work (I’m a dishwasher) and examine the different styles used to create tension. I enjoy the works of H.P. Lovecraft and George Orwell.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a book with a bit more science fiction focus. I don’t have a good name for it yet, but it’ll be focused on science and human morality.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My book hasn’t been published that long yet, but I presume Whizbuzz will be my best friend in terms of promotion.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Getting words down on paper is more important than perfection. It’s easier to get ideas written down and refine them later as opposed to edit as you write. In my experience, ideas come slowly and it’s good to keep your plot open ended to later changes once you’ve developed a cohesive story.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard is to assume all people are selfish. Although it sounds blunt in edgy, if you don’t expect a lot out of people, you are able to recognize glimpses of goodness in places you wouldn’t expect.
What are you reading now?
I’m in the process of reading Altered Carbon by Richard K Morgan.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to continue writing. I’m going to start with my separate science fiction novel. If there’s considerable demand for a sequel I will absolutely make a sequel to Candied Acridity.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
I would bring Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil DeGrasse Tyson, 1984 by George Orwell, and The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien.
Author Websites and Profiles
J.D. Knapp Website
J.D. Knapp Amazon Profile
J.D. Knapp’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile